When it comes to surgical procedures, the use of rubber gloves is now a standard practice. But who was the first to introduce this important innovation in the medical field?

The credit for the first use of rubber gloves during surgery goes to Caroline Hampton, the chief nurse of Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. In the late 19th century, Hampton noticed that the harsh chemicals used for cleaning and sterilizing medical instruments were causing the nurses' hands to become irritated and even infected. In order to protect her staff, she began using rubber gloves during surgical procedures.

This simple yet revolutionary idea not only protected the nurses from harmful chemicals, but also helped to prevent the spread of infection during surgeries. The use of rubber gloves quickly caught on and became a standard practice in operating rooms around the world.

Today, the importance of wearing gloves during surgery is widely recognized for not only protecting the healthcare workers, but also for preventing cross-contamination and reducing the risk of infections for patients. In fact, the World Health Organization recommends that all healthcare workers wear gloves during invasive procedures to ensure patient safety.

If you are interested in learning more about the history of rubber gloves in surgery or the importance of proper hand hygiene in healthcare settings, you can visit the following websites for more information:

• National Center for Biotechnology Information
• World Health Organization

Overall, the introduction of rubber gloves in surgery by Caroline Hampton was a significant milestone in the field of healthcare. It not only improved the safety and well-being of healthcare workers, but also had a profound impact on patient outcomes. Today, we can all be grateful for Hampton's forward thinking and dedication to creating a safer environment for all.

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